How to Place Your First Bulk Order with Nanbin
Placing your first bulk order with a new manufacturer can feel unfamiliar — you are not sure what information to send, how long each step takes, or when you will need to make decisions. This guide walks through the full process from start to finish, so you know exactly what to expect at each stage.
How the Ordering Process Works
Your first order with Nanbin follows seven steps: inquiry, quotation, sample confirmation, order placement, production, shipping, and delivery. Each step has a clear input and output, and you will be informed before moving to the next.
The full timeline depends on your product type and whether you need custom development. A standard stock style with an existing sample typically moves faster than a fully custom design. We will give you a realistic timeline at the quotation stage.
Step 1 — Submit an Inquiry
To start, send us the details of what you need. You can reach us through the contact form, by email, or through our Alibaba storefront.
Here is what helps us respond quickly:
- Product type — a style name, photo, or reference link
- Estimated quantity — even a range is helpful
- Any special requirements — fabric preferences, color, compression level, packaging
Once we receive your inquiry, you can expect a reply within 24 hours. If something is missing, we will follow up with specific questions rather than sending a vague response.
For a detailed guide on what to include in your inquiry, see How to Request a Quote from Nanbin.
Step 2 — Receive a Quotation
After reviewing your inquiry, we prepare a formal quotation that covers:
| What is included | Notes |
|---|---|
| Unit price | Based on your quantity, materials, and construction complexity |
| MOQ (minimum order quantity) | Varies by product type — confirm at inquiry |
| Lead time | Sample time + bulk production time |
| Payment terms | Typically T/T, specific terms confirm at inquiry |
| Shipping terms | FOB, CIF, or other options based on your preference |
The quotation is free and valid for 30 days. If you need pricing for multiple products, we can quote each line item individually.
If any terms in the quotation are unclear, reach out and we will explain before you commit to anything.
Step 3 — Confirm Your Sample
Samples serve one purpose: to confirm that what you receive in bulk matches what you expect. We recommend sampling before every first order, especially for custom designs.
Here is what to expect during sampling:
- Standard samples — If your selected product is a stock style, we can send a reference sample from existing inventory. This is the fastest route.
- Custom samples — If you need a sample made to your specifications, we develop it based on your tech pack or product description. The sample development timeline depends on the complexity of the design and fabric sourcing.
When you receive the sample, check:
- Fit and sizing against your requirements
- Fabric hand feel and quality
- Construction details (seams, stitching, hardware)
- Color accuracy
If the sample needs adjustments, tell us what to change and we revise it. Once the sample is approved, we move to order confirmation.
Sample costs and timelines can be confirmed at inquiry.
Step 4 — Place the Order and Make Payment
After sample approval, we issue a proforma invoice (PI) that confirms:
- Final unit price and total order value
- Delivery date
- Payment schedule
Once the deposit is received, your order enters production scheduling. Payment terms are standard for the industry, and we will confirm the exact terms during quotation.
Before payment is made, we recommend reviewing the PI carefully — especially quantities, delivery date, and shipping terms. Any corrections after production starts may affect the timeline.
Step 5 — Track Production and Quality Control
While your order is in production, here is what happens behind the scenes:
- In-line QC — Our quality team inspects products at key stages during manufacturing.
- Final inspection — Before shipment, every order goes through a final check: quantity verification, appearance inspection, size sampling, functional testing, and packaging review.
You can request:
- Production photos or videos during manufacturing
- A third-party inspection at your cost
- A pre-shipment sample from the bulk run
For a full breakdown of what we check, see Quality Inspection: What Nanbin Checks Before Shipping.
If any issues are found during inspection, we notify you and discuss the resolution before shipment.
Step 6 — Arrange Shipping and Delivery
Once your order passes final inspection, we prepare it for shipment.
Shipping process overview:
- Packaging — Standard export packaging (poly bag + export carton) is included. Custom packaging can be arranged on request.
- Shipping methods — Choose from sea freight (FCL or LCL), air freight, or express courier depending on your timeline and budget.
- Documentation — We handle all export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and any certificates required.
Shipping costs and transit times vary by destination and method. We can provide shipping quotes for different options so you can compare. Confirm specific shipping costs and timelines at inquiry.
Step 7 — After-Sales Support
Your relationship with us does not end at delivery. After your first order arrives:
- Documentation — We provide all shipping and customs documents you need.
- Support — If you have questions about the shipment, product, or reordering, we are available.
- Reordering — For repeat orders, the process is faster: we already have your product specs, packaging preferences, and shipping details on file.
Most of our clients place their second order much more smoothly than the first, because the setup work is already done.
FAQ
What is the minimum order quantity for first-time buyers?
MOQ depends on the product type and complexity. Contact us with your target product, and we will confirm the MOQ for that style.
How long does the full process take, from inquiry to delivery?
The timeline varies by product type, sample requirements, and shipping method. We will give you a detailed timeline at the quotation stage. Standard stock styles with existing samples are the fastest.
Can I skip sampling and go directly to bulk production?
Yes, but we do not recommend it for first orders. Sampling verifies that the product meets your expectations before you commit to full production.
What payment methods do you accept?
We primarily work with T/T bank transfer. Specific terms can be confirmed at inquiry.
Is there any warranty or after-sales support?
Yes. We support our products and work with you to resolve any quality issues after delivery. Terms are agreed per order.
Can I get a quote for multiple products in one inquiry?
Yes. List each product with estimated quantities. We will quote each item separately so you can compare and decide.
Ready to place your first order? Contact us with your product details — we will respond within 24 hours.
